Tami Charles launched her debut middle grade novel, Like Vanessa, to a packed house of enthusiastic readers. The story features a young African American girl who dreams of becoming like Miss America beauty queen Vanessa Williams. Barnes and Noble hosted the event featuring Karyn Parsons of Fresh Prince of Bel Air fame as the MC. There was a line out the door for autographs and the store ran low on books. Now that’s a launch!

The book is heartfelt and a wonderful addition to the cannon of children’s literature. It speaks to a time and age of change that still resonates today, and we can all take something away from her message. Not to mention – it’s a swift read with pages that turn themselves!